EU is finally ending fee-free travel

It's finally here: the end of fee-free travel to the European Union.

The EU is planning to launch its long-awaited visa waiver scheme, ETIAS, in May 2023.

While ETIAS is not the same as a visa, it is quicker, done online, and requires no biometric information - there is still a procedure and a cost to acquire it, rather like the United States' scheme, ESTA.

ETIAS, which stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System, was scheduled for a late 2022 debut.

They are exempt and have freedom of movement around the bloc, allowing them to spend as much time as they want in many countries. EU residents will also be exempt.

The ETIAS will be obligatory for everyone entering the bloc from a country that didn't previously require a visa. The move affects around 60 countries, including the US and the UK, which have lost freedom of movement after leaving the EU. The application process will be done via a largely automated IT system, with approval granted within minutes for an estimated 95% of applicants, according to a memo issued by the EU. In very exceptional cases, the maximum time needed for approval could be up to a month. Anyone with applications denied will have the right to appeal.

ETIAS authorization can be used for an unlimited number of entries over three years. The holders must be observant of the immigration and overstay rules. Third-party nationals can't stay more than 90 days in the bloc, for every 180 day period.

The cost was €7.35 for those aged between 18 and 70. It is not yet clear if others will be able to apply for free or a reduced rate. The US charges $21 for an ESTA authorization.

The start date for applications has not yet been announced.